Biden urged to step up attacks; U.S. looks to ‘degrade capabilities’ after militias injure 3 troops

The Biden administration faced renewed pressure Tuesday to hit back harder against Iran-backed militias in the Middle East after a Christmas Day drone attack in Iraq left three American troops injured, with one of them in critical condition. The Washington Times stories: White House

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Big pay raise for troops in defense bill sent to Biden. Conservatives stymied on cultural issues

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House passed a defense policy bill Thursday that authorizes the biggest pay raise for troops in more than two decades, overcoming objections from some conservatives concerned the measure did not do enough to restrict the Pentagon’s diversity initiatives, abortion travel policy and gender-affirming health care for transgender service members. The $ 886 billion bill was approved by a vote of 310-118 and now goes to President Joe Biden after the Senate had overwhelmingly passed it Wednesday. It is likely the last piece of major legislation Congress…

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Russia increasing troops at Ukraine border; invasion could happen at any time, White House says

Russia is amassing new forces at the Ukraine border and an invasion could begin “any day,” including during the Winter Olympics, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Friday. “We are in the window when an invasion could begin at any time should [Russian President] Vladimir Putin decide to … The Washington Times stories: White House

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Joe Biden to unveil website to order free COVID-19 tests, will deploy 1K troops to help hospitals

President Biden on Tuesday will announce the deployment of 1,000 troops to help hospitals reeling from COVID-19 and unveil a website where Americans can order free at-home virus tests in January, senior administration officials said. He will also underscore the need for widespread vaccination and booster shots to avoid severe … The Washington Times stories: White House

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